"Mr Newland, you have been quite a stranger," said her ladyship, as I walked up to her and made my obeisance. "I did intend to scold you well; but I suppose that sad affair of poor Major Carbonnell's has been a heavy blow to you--you were so intimate--lived together, I believe, did you not? However, you have not so much cause to regret, for he was not a very proper companion for young men like you: to tell you the truth, I consider it as a fortunate circumstance that he was removed, for he would, by degrees, have led you into all manner of mischief, and have persuaded you to squander your fortune. I did at one time think of giving you a hint, but it was a delicate point. Now that he is gone, I tell you very candidly that you have had an escape. A young man like you, Mr Newland, who could command an alliance into the highest, yes, the very highest families--and let me tell you, Mr Newland, that there is nothing like connection--money is of no consequence to you, but connection, Mr Newland, is what you should look for--connection with some high family, and then you will do well. I should like to see you settled--well settled, I mean, Mr Newland. Now that you are rid of the major, who has ruined many young men in his time, I trust you will seriously think of settling down into a married man. Cecilia, my dear, show your tambour work to Mr Newland, and ask him his opinion. Is it not beautiful, Mr Newland?" "Extremely beautiful, indeed, ma'am," replied I, glad at last that her ladyship allowed me to speak a word. "Emma, my dear, you look pale, you must go out into the air. Go, children, put your bonnets on and take a turn in the garden; when the carriage comes round I will send for you." The young ladies quitted the room. "Nice innocent girls, Mr Newland; but you are not partial to blondes, I believe?" "Indeed, Lady Maelstrom, I infinitely prefer the blonde to the brunette." "That proves your taste, Mr Newland. The Fairfaxes are of a very old family--Saxon, Mr Newland. _Fairfax_ is Saxon for light hair. Is is not remarkable that they should be blondes to this day? Pure blood, Mr Newland. You, of course, have heard of General Fairfax in the time of Cromwell. He was their direct ancestor--an excellent family and highly connected, Mr Newland. You are aware that they are my nieces. My sister married Mr Fairfax." I paid the Misses Fairfax the compliments which I thought they really deserved, for they were very pretty amiable girls, and required no puffing on the part of her ladyship; and then I commenced. "Your ladyship has expressed such kind wishes towards me, that I cannot be sufficiently grateful; but, perhaps, your ladyship may think me romantic, I am resolved never to marry, except for love." "A very excellent resolve, Mr Newland; there are few young men who care about love now-a-days, but I consider that love is a great security for happiness in the wedded state."